The whole thing has become a farce as for the umptieth time the government plans were leaked to the press.

And to make it more idiotic: two MP's have problems with the golden state carriage. One of the scenes painted in the interior depicts the colonies & shows black people receiving 'civilization'. The carriage was painted in 1898 (long after slavery was abolished) but well... The MP's themselves are a former communist and a woman who was accused of unethical behavior during her years as diplomat (hiring the company of her boyfriend) and none have apologized for that yet... So perhaps they can start with themselves before they get some paint and redo the ceiling of the golden carriage.

Quote:

AMSTERDAM -- Critics urged the Dutch royal family Friday to get rid of a painting they say is an offensive reminder of wrongs from the Netherlands' colonial past, but the Royal House defended the 19th-century work as an important part of the country's history.
"Homage of the Colonies" decorates one side of Queen Beatrix's iconic gold-trimmed carriage, and depicts half-naked, brown-skinned women and men in servile poses bearing gifts to an enthroned white woman.

I love that the Dutch still hold on to this dress code. I think they are the only royal house that still does. Even for the wedding of Carl and Silvia, this was the dress code. I find when the look is done right, it can come of super elegant. Love Queen Bee and her uniform, I am a big fan of Maxima's choice(even the Indiana Jones hat!)